Welcome to the media kit for the 81st Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin Commemoration on 19 February 2023. You are free to use the below media assets for your promotion and coverage of the events surrounding this commemoration.
ABOUT THE 81st ANNIVERSARY OF THE BOMBING OF DARWIN
Just before 10am on 19 February 1942, World War II forced itself onto Australia’s mainland for the first time, when formations of 188 Japanese aircraft mounted a deadly air raid on Darwin and the terrible sound of whistling bombs rang in the ears of allied troops and civilians alike.
It was the largest single attack ever mounted by a foreign power on Australia. The attack left hundreds of servicemen and civilians dead, and countless others injured.
Each year, 19 February is a declared Day of National Observance, and we come together as a city and a nation to commemorate and pay tribute to the men and women who were there.
Territorians and interstate visitors of all ages come together at the Darwin Cenotaph to honour those who lost their lives and remember the community who survived.
The Bombing of Darwin Commemorative Service will be held at the Darwin Cenotaph on The Esplanade on 19 February 2023 from 9:30am to 11am.
Many other events, exhibitions and tours are held to commemorate this important time in Australia's history.
Live streaming
The Bombing of Darwin Commemorative Service at The Esplanade in Darwin, will be live streamed from 9.30am to 11am ACST on Sunday 19 February. View the Live stream.
Social media image to promote the live stream
An Auslan Interpreter will be in attendance during the Commemorative Service.
EVENTS PROGRAM
15 - 20 February - BOMBING OF DARWIN 81st ANNIVERSARY TOUR PACKAGE
A limited-edition tour package and experience to relive what happened 81 years ago. Includes:
- Sea Darwin's Bombing of Darwin Cruise
- Bombing of Darwin Harbour Museum
- Darwin Military Museum
19 February, 8.15am to 9am - USS PEARY MEMORIAL SERVICE
Join the Australian-American Association of the Northern Territory Inc. for a memorial service and wreath-laying to commemorate the Sinking of the USS Peary. More information.
19 February, 9.30am to 11am - BOMBING OF DARWIN COMMEMORATIVE SERVICE
19 February is a Day of National Observance. You’re invited to honour those who lost their lives in the Darwin air raids and remember the community who survived. This event will be live streamed. More information.
19 February, 9am to 2pm - CHUNG WAH SOCIETY: NT CHINESE MUSEUM OPEN DAY - THE BOMBING OF DARWIN AND THE CHINESE EXPERIENCE
Showcasing the impact of World War II: the bombing of Darwin, the fate of China Town and the contribution by the Darwin Chinese people in their service to Australia. More information.
Monday 20 February, 10am to 11am - ECUMENICAL SERVICE, ADELAIDE RIVER WAR CEMETERY
Drive yourself or book a return transfers from Darwin or Batchelor. More information and transfer bookings.
MEDIA RESOURCES
Background Information & Facts about the Bombing of Darwin
Download fact sheet
Images
- Historical Images
Download files
Image acknowledgement: Northern Territory (or NT) Library. Caption document included.
- Past Event Images
Download images
(Imagery captured by the Department of Defence is available via the Defence image gallery)
- 2023 Event Images
Download images
Livestream
The event will be livestreamed from 9.25am to 11am Australian Central Standard Time (AEST - 10.55am to 12.30pm). Visit this link for the livestream
Site Map
Download map
Public Safety Plan
Download here
Media Contacts
- Fred McCue (City of Darwin Public Relations and External Affairs Advisor Manager) – 0401 119 792 or Fred.mccue@darwin.nt.gov.au